BSE Spotlight: Self-Tanners

We’ve said it before and we will say it again: there is no such thing as a “safe” tan!

 

That being said, there are some sunless tanning alternatives that can provide you with that glow you’re looking for as spring starts to peek around the corner. As we finally start to peel away layers of jackets and reveal more skin, self-tanners start to reappear on our list of springtime body care essentials!

   

WHY CHOOSE SELF-TANNERS? 

 

Self-tanning is the safest alternative to both direct sun exposure and tanning beds––which, in case you didn’t know, are just as damaging to the skin as the sun’s rays.

 

Tanning beds were once considered “safer” than the actual sun and a great way to “get a base tan” before going on a vacation or starting off the summer. But we can confirm: this is a total myth! Even though tanning beds use an artificial light source, these rays can damage and age your skin — again, just as the sun does. The rays from some indoor tanning beds may even be stronger than those from the sun!

 

So if ever you are craving that instant golden glow, we’ve got you covered with every type of self-tanner out there. From mousses and creams to gels and drops, here are a few of our beloved self-tanning products and a bit more on how to use them:

  

COOLA SUNCARE SUNLESS TAN 2-IN-1 APPLICATOR/EXFOLIATOR MITT - $15 

 

Start your glow off strong this spring with the COOLA Organic Sunless Tan Collection and easy-to-use, 2-in-1 Exfoliator & Applicator Mitt. It's a match made in mitt heaven––no pun intended!

 

For best results, exfoliate using the coarse side of the mitt on wet or dry skin to prep for your sunless tan treatment. Apply your favorite COOLA Sunless Tan formula to the terry cloth applicator side (the terry cloth side should be damp or dry) and rub evenly onto dry skin for a glowing, streak-free tan. We recommend hand washing and drying your mitt after use, as well as washing your hands after use.

  

JAMES READ H2O TAN DROPS BODY - $65 

 

Tanning drops are the new tanning trend we can totally get behind. Simply add 1-4 drops (6-8 for a darker tan) to your usual skincare in the palm of your hand and mix well. Apply evenly over your body and repeat 2-3 times a week to build and maintain your natural, healthy-looking glow all year round. Suits all skin tones. Oh, and again: make sure you wash your hands thoroughly after application!

 

SUNESCAPE INSTANT SELF-TAN MOUSSE - $42 

 

No time for a spray tan? Not a problem! Get a bronzed “faux-glow” that develops in mere minutes with the Sunescape Instant Self Tan Mousse: a lightweight, non-sticky, fast-drying, odorless velvety mousse that decreases the appearance of irregular skin tone, cellulite, and stretch marks. Because of its rapid development, you can enjoy effortless, sun-kissed skin in an instant.

 

Enriched with conditioning macadamia nut, avocado, coconut oils, and added antioxidants from green tea, kakadu plum, grape seed extract, and vitamin E: this product is made to hydrate, nourish, plump, and protect the skin!

 

YONKA PARIS TAN PROLONGER - $70 

 

This aftersun lotion is both soothing and an irresistible complexion enhancer. Revitalizing, hydrating, and gentle: it leaves the skin with a delicious satiny feel, which prolongs the natural radiance of your tan day after day. To use, apply the lotion evenly to the face and body. Renew the application every day in order to prolong your natural tan. After 5 days, you will reach the maximum glow intensity. Wash your hands after use.

  

IN CONCLUSION 

 

We would be remiss if we didn’t add that self-tanners do not protect from the sun’s rays in any way, so it is imperative that you use an SPF on a daily basis. During the warmer months, you need to apply about a shot-glass portion of sunscreen all over your body. The general guideline is to opt for a full-spectrum UVA/UVB and an SPF of at least 30 on your body, and even higher on your face.

 

This will keep you safe from skin cancers, reducing the early signs of aging, wrinkling, and age spots. Trust us––you won’t regret it. 

 

Until next time, protect the skin you are in!

 

The BSE Team